A poisoning attempt on ousted Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad has allegedly been made, according to claims by online account General SVR, which is reportedly run by a former Russian intelligence officer.
Assad, 59, has been under the protection of Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow since December 8, 2024, after fleeing Syria during a rapid rebel takeover.
Alleged Poisoning Incident
On Sunday, Assad reportedly fell ill, experiencing violent coughing and choking shortly after seeking medical assistance. General SVR claims there is “every reason to believe an assassination attempt was made,” citing the presence of poison in his system after medical tests.
Assad’s condition was said to have stabilized by Monday after receiving treatment in his Moscow apartment. However, no official confirmation has been provided by Russian authorities or independent sources.
Family in Exile
Assad and his wife Asma, 49, have been living in exile in Moscow since his regime’s collapse. Once a powerful figure in Syria, Assad’s two-decade reign ended in defeat as rebels swiftly seized control.
Asma al-Assad, who was born in London, has faced significant challenges since the exile. Last month, it was revealed that her UK passport had expired, effectively barring her from returning to Britain.
Reports suggest tensions within the family, with rumors circulating that Asma may be seeking a divorce and potentially planning a return to the UK.
Putin’s Role
Russian President Vladimir Putin, a long-time ally u9of Assad, granted refuge to the family following their escape from Syria. However, their presence in Moscow has sparked speculation and unrest, especially given this latest alleged assassination attempt.
With no official statements from Russian authorities or independent verification of the poisoning claims, the incident remains shrouded in mystery.
